Ottawa Valley, Ontario, Canada: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Ottawa Valley, Ontario, Canada? If you're planning to go to Ottawa Valley, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Ottawa Valley, Ontario, Canada

Based on the climate and weather in Ottawa Valley, Ontario, Canada, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Ottawa Valley, Ontario, Canada

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Ottawa Valley, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Ottawa Valley, Ontario, Canada by month

January

In January, Ottawa Valley can be dangerously cold and somewhat snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C) and about a third of the time jump into the low 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the single digits below 0 F (10+ below zero C). During your visit, you can expect extremely heavy snowfall. This is also a rainy time for Ottawa Valley, with a few of the days of the month having rain. In January, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa Valley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the correct type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

February

In February, Ottawa Valley is biting cold and somewhat snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C) and 5-10 days this month jump into the low 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C). During your visit, you can expect extremely heavy snowfall. This is also a rainy time for Ottawa Valley, with a few of the days of the month having rain. In February, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa Valley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the necessary kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

March

If you are traveling to Ottawa Valley in March, you will notice that it is freezing and somewhat snowy. Expect it to rain regularly and snow about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa Valley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

If you are traveling to Ottawa Valley in April, you will notice that it can be brisk, snowy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time and snow sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa Valley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the right kind. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

May

If you are traveling to Ottawa Valley in May, you will notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa Valley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the right kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

June

June in Ottawa Valley is warm and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa Valley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the right kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

July

In July, Ottawa Valley is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) and once in a while jump into the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Ottawa Valley, with several of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa Valley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

August

August in Ottawa Valley is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa Valley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the correct type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

September

If you visit Ottawa Valley during September, you will probably see that it is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa Valley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

October

If you visit Ottawa Valley during October, you are likely to find that it is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa Valley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the right kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

November

November in Ottawa Valley is pretty cool, snowy and somewhat rainy. The snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa Valley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the right type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

December in Ottawa Valley can be dangerously cold and very snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C). It tends to rain sometimes. It also snows about half of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa Valley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

What to do in Ottawa Valley, Ontario, Canada

Ottawa Valley in Ontario, Canada, is a hidden gem for tourists looking for adventure, history, and natural beauty. Located just an hour away from the bustling city of Ottawa, the region boasts some of the most incredible landscapes and attractions in Canada. From stunning waterfalls and scenic vistas to rich cultural heritage and outdoor activities, here are the top tourist attractions in Ottawa Valley.

1. Algonquin Provincial Park: Spanning over 7,600 square kilometres, the Algonquin Provincial Park is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in North America. Visitors can explore over 2,400 pristine lakes, countless miles of hiking trails, and vast forests filled with wildlife, including moose, wolves, and black bears.

2. Bonnechere Caves: Discovered in 1859, the Bonnechere Caves are a natural wonder hidden beneath the surface of the earth. These limestone caves are over 500 million years old and offer a fascinating glimpse into the geological history of the region. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the underground passages, marvel at the mineral formations, and learn about the cave's cultural and historical significance.

3. Pembroke Heritage Murals: The town of Pembroke is home to an impressive collection of murals that depict the region's rich heritage and culture. These larger-than-life paintings adorn the walls of buildings throughout the town, and visitors can take self-guided walking tours to discover the amazing artwork and learn about the area's history.

4. Ottawa River: The Ottawa River is a majestic waterway that stretches over 1,271 kilometres and flows through the heart of the Ottawa Valley. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including white-water rafting, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and camping.

5. Canadian Museum of History: Located on the banks of the Ottawa River, the Canadian Museum of History is a must-visit attraction for history buffs. The museum features over 20,000 years of Canadian history, including exhibits on indigenous peoples, European exploration, and the country's cultural heritage. Visitors can also explore the stunning architecture of the building and enjoy panoramic views of Parliament Hill across the river.

6. Rideau Canal: The Rideau Canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most scenic waterways in Canada. The canal showcases some of the best-preserved examples of early 19th-century engineering in North America and connects the city of Ottawa to the historic village of Merrickville. Visitors can take boat tours, rent canoes or kayaks, or simply stroll along the banks to admire the stunning views.

7. Calabogie Peaks Resort: The Calabogie Peaks Resort is a year-round destination that offers a range of outdoor activities, including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and golfing. The resort is located in the spectacular Madawaska Highlands and features a range of accommodations, dining options, and recreational facilities.

In conclusion, the Ottawa Valley is a destination that offers something for everyone. From natural wonders and historic landmarks to thrilling outdoor adventures and cultural attractions, there are endless opportunities to explore and enjoy this beautiful region of Canada. So why not plan your next vacation to the Ottawa Valley and discover all that this hidden gem has to offer?

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Măcin Mountains National Park, Romania, Philippines, Philippines, Towamencin, Pennsylvania, United States of America, La Rioja, Argentina, Lower Gwynedd Township, Pennsylvania, United States of America, Playa El Yaque, Venezuela, Hope, New Jersey, United States of America, Wolfforth, Texas, United States of America, Essenheim, Germany, Channel Islands, California, United States of America, and Santa Barbara, California, United States of America.